Wisconsin university regents reject deal with Republicans to reduce diversity positions

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The regents of Universities of Wisconsin have narrowly voted to reject a deal with Republican lawmakers to freeze hiring for diversity positions, drop an affirmative action faculty hiring program at UW-Madison and create a position at the flagship campus focused on conservative thought. The regents voted 9-8 during an emergency meeting Saturday to reject the deal reached Friday after being brokered by Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. Conservatives have long criticized the UW system as a bastion of liberalism. Democrats have accused Republicans of holding employees hostage by blocking pay raises and argue that diversity initiatives enhance the collegiate experience and play a crucial role in identifying promising students who grew up with fewer resources.